Essential Items for a Sailor's Survival Kit

Enhancing safety and preparedness is crucial for every sailor. Whether you're navigating the high seas, crabbing along the coast, or testing the limits of your yacht's endurance, a well-equipped survival kit can mean the difference between a minor misadventure and a dire situation. Let's explore the essential items that should be included in your survival kit.

Core Survival Equipment

Life Jackets Bailer Signal Flag Oars or Paddle Whistle Cotter Pins for the Propeller (if using an outboard motor) Flares

If you're heading into open waters, consider adding a cell phone or marine radio to your kit. For serious offshore cruising or work, you might also want to add a liferaft (inflatable type) for added safety.

Occupational Safety Gear

Personal Safety Harnesses Personal EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) for each person on the yacht during offshore operations. Ensure every individual uses one.

Preparation and Planning

Check Fuel Levels before heading out to sea. Ensure you have sufficient fuel plus a reserve. Check Weather Forecasts to determine if the weather is appropriate for your planned trip. Check Boat Condition to make sure it's properly maintained and that no maintenance is needed. Check Boat Loading to ensure the boat is not overloaded and that all items are securely fastened to prevent the boat from capsizing. In West Australia, any vessel heading more than 4 km offshore must carry and be able to use a VHF or HF radio. Ensure your EPIRB is GPS type so it accurately indicates your location within 10 meters. Switch to DSC (Digital Selective Calling) on your VHF radio, which allows you to send a distress signal and position within seconds.

Survival Kit Essentials

A robust survival kit should include:

Whistle First Aid Kit AM-FM Radio and Batteries Face Mask and Respirator Vinyl Gloves Wool Gloves Poncho Thermal Blanket Water Pouches Light Sticks Body Warmers biohazard Bags Towlettes Food Bars Paracord

This is roughly a 3-day survival kit, which is a good starting point for any extended maritime activity.

Personal Survival Gear

Life Vest or Individual Life Raft Solar-Powered or Hand-Cranked Waterproof Flashlight Signal Mirror Sun Shield Survival Blanket Large Brim Collapsible Orange Hat Collapsible Water Container Personal Desalination Unit Dehydrated Food Deflated 3′ Spherical Mylar Balloon with Small Inflation Cartridge of Helium 40′ of Line Fish Hooks Sunscreen Sunglasses Work Gloves

Above all, remember that the life vest or life raft is the most crucial item. Depending on the amount of food you carry, all of this can be packed into a single, preferably waterproof/watertight, backpack.